KENNESAW, Ga. – The Kennesaw State men's and women's cross country teams will open the 2026 season Friday morning by hosting the Stan Sims XC Opener.

The men's four-mile race is set for 8:30 a.m., followed by the women's 5K at 9:15 a.m. Both races will be held at Allatoona Creek Park in Acworth, Georgia.

Kennesaw State will compete against Florida, Georgia Tech and Emory.

The KSU women were picked to finish tied for second, while the men were selected fifth in the Conference USA cross country preseason poll. The men return a pair of All-Conference USA runners in Collins Kipkemboi and Brian Limo. They are joined by newcomers Cody Guion, Ethan Bridge and Nate Pacetti. The men return five runners from 2025. Kennesaw State placed fourth at the 2025 Conference USA Cross Country Championship.

The women finished fifth at last season's championship meet and return All-Conference USA performer Madison Seiler. Seiler is joined by seniors Sammy Hartman and Emma Ferguson. KSU also returns four juniors and two sophomores. The Owls welcomed three talented freshmen to the roster in August.

Kennesaw State will return to action Sept. 19 at the John McNichols Invitational, hosted by Indiana State  in Terre Haute, Indiana.
 
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